Help with brakes please.

[Marshall]

I've just changed the rear disks, pads and one caliper on my Mazda 6 (Sorry - I know its not properly shite - Its getting there though!).

 

My question is about brake fluid. Many people say it degrades within a few weeks of being opened. Is this true, and does it mean I need to buy more when I come to bleed the whole system as I plan to do in a few weeks time?

 

As far as im aware the brake fluid master cylinder isn't fully airtight anyway (or am I wrong in that assumption?).

 

Advice please.

[spike60]

Should be fine with the cap on for a few weeks. Think it draws water in over a period of time same as it does in the master cylinder, this is why you're supposed to change the fluid every couple of years or so.

[PiperCub]

As long as the cap is sealed tightly on it'll be fine for a good while. Yes it absorbs moisture from the air but if it's kept closed it can only be exposed to the air trapped inside the bottle. In fact, I would say it'll be in a better stae than that in the m/cyl as there's always a vent hole in them that can let in moisture.

 

Personally, I only keep opened bottles of hydraulic fluid for about a year then dump them to be on the safe side but then again I change one keeper's fluid every year (so each is done every two years) and the bike, every year so go through a couple of litres.

 

Oh, and your Mazda 6 can be considered shite so don't worry!! 

[dollywobbler]

Alternatively, buy a Citroen. None of this faff with LHM.

[Bren]

The sills on your 6 will absorb moisture more quickly than brake fluid.

[Marshall]

Thanks guys. Appreciate the advice. And, Bren: You're right about those sills. Mines a 54 plater and almost all 6's I see have terrible rot in that area. Luckily mine only has minor small scabs which I plan to remedy this summer and then waxoyl the heck out of it.

Its a shame really, because they really are nice cars tbh.

 

Thanks again everyone. This place is still what it used to be (....etc)

[Bren]

Prevention is better than cure - dinitrol is good stuff.

 

I have to replace the fluid on our recently purchased focus - brakes a bit too soft for my liking.

[Marshall]

With PiperCub's statement It feel like i should get an Autoshite sticker and become one of the chosen few!? If there are any left that is?

[Marshall]

^^^^How can I get one??

[Justin Case]

Oh, and your Mazda 6 can be considered shite so don't worry!! 

 

Thank you, you have made my day also